Laboratory Technician - Analytical Support

Varda Space Industries•El Segundo, CA

4h•$28 - $40•Onsite

About The Position

Varda Space Industries is seeking a motivated Laboratory Technician to provide critical laboratory support for our Analytical Sciences team. This role will focus on preparation of stock solutions, sample preparation, maintenance of laboratory equipment and chemical inventory, and execution of analytical testing to support analytical method development activities. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in pharmaceutical laboratory operations and familiarity with drug product characterization techniques. This is a 6 month temp position and it can potentially lead to a full-time Research Associate position depending on performance and business needs.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, or related field
1-3 years of experience in pharmaceutical or academic research laboratory settings
Hands-on experience with analytical sample preparation and handling
Knowledge of basic analytical techniques for product characterization
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow SOPs precisely
Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency with electronic laboratory notebooks and data management systems

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, or related field
1-3 years of experience in pharmaceutical laboratory
Experience in drug product development
Familiarity with characterization instruments (U/HPLC, CE, DLS, DSF, CD, FTIR, ELISA, MS)
Previous experience working in GLP-compliant environments
Knowledge of monoclonal antibodies, therapeutic proteins, and/or small molecule API

Responsibilities

Prepare and maintain stock solutions and buffers for sample prep and instrument operation
Manage laboratory chemical inventory and coordinate with supply chain to ensure uninterrupted operations
Monitor equipment status and maintain laboratory instruments in working order
Execute solution preparation according to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Support laboratory organization and cleanliness to maintain GLP-ready environment
Perform basic analytical characterization of drug products
Execute routine assay requests with techniques such as U/HPLC, CE, spectroscopy, CD, FTIR, ELISA, MS)
Prepare reagents, buffers, and mobile phases in advance of scheduled experiments
Conduct routine instrument calibration and qualification activities
Document all activities in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems
Work closely with analytical scientists to anticipate laboratory needs
Interact with a routine testing request system and communicate with scientists making the requests
Communicate inventory requirements and potential supply issues proactively
Participate in team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives

Benefits

Flexible PTO policy + 12 paid holidays
100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA options
Voluntary accident, hospital, critical illness, and pet insurance
$120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses
12 weeks of parental leave (with supplemental disability leave for CA mothers)
Family building, pregnancy, parenting and menopause benefits via Maven Clinic
Sponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependents
Substantial incentive equity in a fully funded space start-up
401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match (immediately vested)
$20/pay period cell phone reimbursement
Relocation support for new hires, if needed
Fully stocked kitchen with lunch provided daily and dinner provided twice weekly
Company and team-bonding events, happy hours and mission-success celebrations
Complimentary EV charging
Dog-friendly office space